Sewer/Water Licensing in Clewiston city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain sewer or water systems in Clewiston must hold a valid state license. This includes installation, alteration, or repair of public or private sewer and water lines, treatment systems, and related infrastructure. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines these as regulated construction activities requiring licensure by the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Work that modifies, extends, or services water and sewer infrastructure—whether for residential, commercial, or municipal projects—falls under regulated trades and cannot be performed without proper licensing.

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the State: Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, which administers all contractor licensing statewide. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

2. Meet Experience Requirements: Demonstrate relevant work experience in sewer/water construction or maintenance. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] specifies qualifications including documented experience, often 4 years in the specific trade.

3. Pass Exams: Complete the state licensing examination covering technical knowledge and Florida construction law.

4. Submit Documentation: Provide proof of experience, worker's compensation insurance, and other required documentation to the state board.

The state board, not Clewiston city, issues the license. Processing timelines vary; contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board for current application procedures and exam schedules.

Local Requirements

Clewiston city operates under its own municipal code. Clewiston Municipal Code governs local permitting and contractor requirements within city limits.

Before beginning any sewer or water work in Clewiston:

• Obtain a local permit from the Clewiston Building Department or Public Works Department
• Review municipal amendments that may impose additional local restrictions, bonding requirements, or inspection protocols beyond state law
• Verify city-specific standards for materials, installation methods, or system design that exceed state minimums

Contact the Clewiston Building Department for local permit applications, fees, and any city amendments to state licensing requirements.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] exempts certain work from licensing requirements, including:

• Work performed by property owners on their own property (limited scope)
• Work performed by employees of licensed contractors under direct supervision
• Routine maintenance not involving structural or system modifications
• Work by municipalities and government entities in some contexts

Review the statute to determine if your specific work qualifies for an exemption.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Operator Certification Program
- Phone: 850-245-7500
- Website: https://floridadep.gov/water/certification-restoration/content/water-and-domestic-wastewater-operator-certification

References

• Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Clewiston Municipal Code

The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)